AP Literature- Prose: Plot Flashcards

14561706914	anticlimax	A sudden descent from the impressive or significant to the ludicrous or inconsequential	0
14561709114	catastrophe	The concluding action of a classical tragedy containing the resolution of the plot	1
14561711117	comic relief	A humorous incident introduced into a serious literary work in order to relieve dramatic tension or heighten emotional impact	2
14561714394	dilemma	a situation in which a difficult choice has to be made between two or more alternatives, especially equally undesirable ones.	3
14561715354	deus ex machina	("god from the machine"). The resolution of a plot by use of a highly improbable chance, coincidence or artificial device that solves some difficult problem or crisis.	4
14561741472	indeterminate ending	an ending in which the central problem or conflict is left unresolved	5
14561741473	Inversion	a reversal in order, nature, or effect	6
14561743419	Motivation	an emotion, desire, physiological need, or similar impulse that acts as an incitement to action	7
14561746352	mystery	An unusual set of circumstances for which the reader craves an explanation; used to create suspense	8
14561747145	Plot	the sequence of events in a literary work	9
14561747811	plot manipulation	A situation in which an author gives the plot a twist or turn unjustified by preceding action or by the characters involved	10
14561750970	Plot device	An object, character, or event whose only reason for existing is to advance the story. Often breaks suspension of disbelief.	11
14561751843	Red Herring	a literary tactic of diverting attention away from an item or person of significance	12
14561752403	Suspense	a state or feeling of excited or anxious uncertainty about what may happen.	13
14561754284	suspension of disbelief	An unspoken agreement between writer and reader: "I agree to believe your make-believe if it entertains me."	14
14561755564	Subplot	A plot subordinate to the main plot of a literary work	15